Sena

The Sena dynasty was a Hindu ruling house that governed Bengal and neighbouring regions from the 11th to the early 13th century, succeeding the Pala dynasty in eastern India.

The Sena dynasty emerged in eastern India during the 11th century, likely originating from warrior elites who migrated from southern India to Bengal. Following the decline of the Pala dynasty, the Sena established control over extensive territories covering present-day West Bengal, Bangladesh, and parts of Bihar.

Sena rule was characterised by a structured territorial administration and a strong emphasis on Brahmanical Hinduism. The rulers promoted orthodox Hindu practices, particularly Brahmanism and Vaishnavism, reversing the long-standing Buddhist patronage associated with the Pala period.

Culturally, the Sena era witnessed the development of urban centres, temple construction, and the patronage of Sanskrit scholarship. The dynasty also contributed to social codification, leaving a lasting imprint on the regional social and religious landscape.

From the late 12th century onward, the Sena faced increasing pressure from Turkic and Afghan forces expanding into northern India. The defeat of the last Sena ruler in the early 13th century marked the end of their political authority and the gradual incorporation of Bengal into the Delhi Sultanate.

India • |1070/1230| • Sena dynasty

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